I am just back from the ESCA 2014 Summer Educational Conference that was held in Miami Beach. Great networking and educational opportunities, some of which I thought I might share. Of particular interest was a presentation by Brian Casey with CEIR (Center for Exhibition Industry Research) as to the industry and current observations.

There were many factoids presented and I thought some bore repeating and bringing to light:

Approximately 2/3 of the shows held are owned or run by Associations with the remaining third being privately held.

Associations rely heavily on their shows to help generate revenues to administer their associations – it was estimated that some Associations rely on their show to generate 40-70% of their operational budget revenues.

Tradeshow industry saw modest growth of 1.5% in Q2 of 2013 and 3.0% in Q4 for the same year

As of Q1 2014 there have been 14 positive quarters of growth for the industry (although some of that has been sluggish) and it was reported that the industry is almost on a par with year 2000.

Exhibitors are increasingly concerned with their budgets – the two largest areas being weight (shipping / drayage) and exhibit build costs (could be a reason for so many Exhibitor’s considering more modular products).

It was reported that exhibiting space in the U.S exceeds the current demand – yet many facilities are being remodeled, enlarged or built new in anticipation of new shows or opportunities. Many older facilities are aging and trying to catch-up.

These were but a few of the informational snippets available and reported on during the conference. CEIR offers their research and reports to their members, non-members can purchase various reports. CEIR does partner with other Associations (like EDPA) and often shares some research with other association’s members.

Jay Burkette, a 30 year tradeshow industry veteran is the Vice President at ExpoDisplays and the current President of the EDPA.